Offset Solenoid Butterfly Valve Reducing Actuator Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing butterfly valves require larger actuators to achieve a full quarter turn, leading to inefficiencies when less than a quarter turn is needed, resulting in a larger overall size and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact solenoid-operated butterfly valve design with a valve disk that rotates about an axis offset from the actuator's linear displacement, allowing for partial turns and reducing the size and torque required for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a motor actuator is sized to impart a full quarter turn to the valve disk, then the valve disk can rotate between first and second positions, but the overall size of the valve and actuator becomes larger than necessary when less than a quarter turn is desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional motor actuator with a solenoid actuator that converts electrical energy directly to linear mechanical motion. This substitution eliminates the need for a large motor and complex gearing mechanisms, achieving the required valve disk rotation with a much more compact actuator design that is only activated when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the solenoid actuator provides linear displacement only when electrical power is applied, allowing the valve disk to rotate between positions. When power is removed, a spring returns the actuator to its original position, automatically resetting the valve. This dynamic operation allows for partial turns and eliminates the need for a continuously engaged large actuator.
2Volume of moving object
If a solenoid actuator is used to provide linear displacement for rotating the valve disk, then the actuator size is reduced, but the linkage mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an asymmetric linkage mechanism where the solenoid actuator is connected to the valve disk at an offset from the rotation axis. This asymmetric connection point creates a mechanical advantage that converts the linear solenoid displacement into rotational motion of the valve disk, simplifying the overall linkage while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spring as an intermediary element that works in conjunction with the solenoid actuator. The spring provides the return force when the solenoid is de-energized, eliminating the need for a complex bidirectional actuation mechanism and simplifying the overall linkage system while maintaining reliable valve disk rotation control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables high flow rates with low pressure drop and compact design, achieving a flow coefficient of greater than 1.0 and less than 50.0, specifically 3.1, while minimizing the torque needed for fluid flow redirection.
Implementation Method 1
An actuator, linked to the valve disk at a point offset from the axis of rotation, rotates the disk about the axis of rotation in response to linear displacement of the actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A butterfly valve and a valve system using the butterfly valve are disclosed. The butterfly valve includes a valve body and a valve disk disposed in the body such that the valve disk may be rotated between at least a first position and a second position using a linear actuator. The actuator may be a linear solenoid coupled to the valve disk spaced a distance from the axis of rotation of the valve disk.